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Go on a treasure hunt. Hide coins, a small wrapped toy, candy or other treasure and have the kids look for it. What makes something treasure? What makes something valuable?

Treasure

Read: But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19

Ask: The shepherds had just visited baby Jesus and told all the people about him. That is what Mary is thinking about. What does it mean to treasure up all these things? How is Jesus a treasure to you?

Pray: Thank you Lord for bringing Jesus, our treasure. Help us to think about him and to treasure his love for us in our hearts.

Others things to do:

*Make a treasure box. Write words on pieces of paper that describe Jesus and place in the treasure box.

*Put on some quiet music. Sit and silently think about Jesus. Coloring or drawing will help kids to stay focused.

Ask everyone what makes them afraid. Was anyone afraid in the Christmas story? Make a list of people who might have been afraid and what made them fearful.

Fear

Read: An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Luke 2: 9-10

Ask: Why were the shepherds afraid? Why did the angels tell them not to be afraid? What was the good news? Do you think that being afraid ever keeps you from hearing good news?

Pray: Lord, when we are afraid help us to trust you. Help us to remember that you love us and you have said that perfect love casts out fear. Help us not to miss you working around us because we are afraid.

Other things to do:

*Paint rocks (small box or other small object) and put the words “Fear not” on it. Place it somewhere as a reminder such as beside the bed if a child is scared at night.

*Act out the angel coming to the shepherds. Take turns being the angel. Be overly dramatic with “Do not be afraid.”

*Pray specifically for each person’s fears. In the next few weeks, continue to pray for one another to “do not be afraid” but to remember that God loves them and is there.